Curramulka

189 kms from Adelaide

The town of Curramulka was surveyed in 1878. The name reputedly refers to 'emu' (curre) and 'deep waterhole' (mulka). This small inland town has a general store, school, community club, agricultural supplies and a hotel which is affectionately known as the 'Curry Pub' – a great place to stop, enjoy a cold beer and chat with some locals. The town is very proud of its sporting community, and is home to bowls, netball, basketball, tennis, cricket, football and golf clubs.

In the 1870s when new farming land was being sought further from Adelaide, pastoralists established sheep runs in the Yorke Peninsula. For some time the area was populated largely by the shepherds caring for these flocks. During August and September 1876 hundreds of people travelled from Adelaide to Stansbury by steamer. They then walked to Curramulka to view land being offered for sale in the first selections.

Curramulka enjoyed its heyday in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when most farming produce moved through nearby Port Julia. The town's commercial importance dwindled when Ardrossan to the north became the main regional port for wheat and wool.

Curramulka comes alight at Christmas time in a big way. Well known for its 'Curramulka Lights Up' event held the first Saturday in December, the residents unite and provide a spectacular fairyland of twinkling Christmas lights throughout the town.

Just outside Curramulka is found what is acknowledged as the most extensive chain of limestone caves in the southern hemisphere. The caves are considered too dangerous for amateur cavers so the entire system is closed to the public. The only regular visitors are members of the Police Rescue Squad who do part of their training in the caverns.

Curramulka Farmers Market

Held on the first Sunday of every month, the Curramulka Farmers' Market offers fresh fish, fruit and veg, cakes and bakes, plants and ornaments, candles and knits to locals and tourists alike. Proceeds from the stall holders fee are returned to the Curramulka community to upgrade various sporting venues, playgrounds, etc. It's a great social way to get rid of garden gluts or make a bit of money selling crafts or cooking.